Cutting without Cursing: A Successful Cancellation Project

Author/Creator ORCID

Date

2016-07-01

Type of Work

Department

SU Libraries

Program

Citation of Original Publication

Hardy, B. B., Zimmerman, M. C., & Hanscom, L. A. (2016). Cutting without Cursing: A Successful Cancellation Project. The Serials Librarian. Advance online publication. doi:10.1080/0361526X.2016.1196635

Rights

CC-BY

Abstract

The Salisbury University Libraries embarked on a serials and database cancellation project in the 2014-2015 academic year, eventually cutting nearly 20% of journals without causing any faculty protests. Picking up ideas from numerous other libraries, the three-person project task force developed a three-stage process: 1) preparation—gathering data and laying the groundwork for getting feedback; 2) getting feedback from liaisons, faculty, and departments; and 3) making decisions about what to cut and sharing the results. This article details the steps taken and key recommendations for other libraries undertaking similar projects.